Who doesn’t love an international act playing live on Indian soil? And when it’s an eclectic ensemble like The Faculty, it can only be a sign of good times to come. Playing this weekend at bFlat, the bunch of musicians from across the world put together a beautiful blend of fusion and modern rock for Bengaluru’s music lovers.
Camiel Jansen, the frontrunner of the group says it’s always a thrill to play in Bengaluru. “I’m totally excited about this concert. This is not the first time I’m in Bengaluru. I came here to play in bFlat for composer and drummer Karina Colis a couple of months ago.”
The five-member international ensemble, all visiting faculty at the Swarnabhoomi Academy of Music in Tamil Nadu, comprises Paola Vergara from México on vocals, Camiel Jansen from The Netherlands on electric bass, Gabriël Geszti from Brazil on piano, Francisco de Larrea from México on guitar and Karina Colis, also from México on drums.
What’s special in this set list and the ace musician says the gig itself is special and dabbles in a range of styles: “We’re bringing a bit of everything in this show. We will perform my own compositions and also revisit cover tunes by bands like Snarky Puppy, Hiatus Kaiyote and Radiohead.”
For the audience, Camiel promises that they will be filled with absolute joy. “The sheer thrill of listening to good music and the fact that it’s time well spent is what they will take back with them. We want them to have a good time with us and go home with happy faces.”
The international band with a multi-cultural line-up is the brainchild of Camiel who, although specialises in the double bass for his jazz projects, is equally skilled on the electric bass, which he will play with this band.
“Obviously we’d call the outfit The Faculty,” he says with a laugh referring to their stint with the Swarnabhoomi Academy. “I know it’s the most uninspiring name, but it works for us and I’m thrilled about the outcome. That’ll do.”
On his own personal journey with music, Camiel affirms that it has always been about music to him. “I’ve wanted to be a musician my whole life and I’m happy to be doing what I’m doing right now. I wouldn’t have it any other way.”
Camiel is versatile with jazz, classical and pop music, as well as composes and arranges for horns, strings and big band. Currently, he is a leader of ‘Ikarai’, a modern classical group that integrates classical music with improvisation techniques.
He recalls that he was playing the piano from the age of five to 25. “I moved on to the bass and the double bass from the age of 15-17 until now. It’s been an incredible journey of ups and downs but there’s not a single second I’ve felt was wasted with this passion. I’m blessed to follow this path that I’ve set myself on. It’s beautiful and looking back I have no regrets.”
In the future, he hopes to continue playing a lot more shows. “I have a bunch of programmes coming my way. I hope to return home soon too since there’s a lot planned there as well.”What’s his take on India and the music here? Camiel replies that he’s enjoying his stay here. “I’ve been here for the last four months. Apart from the culture shock, it’s a lot to take in. The land and its music are incredible. It has its ups and downs like any other country. But there’s so much for me to take in. It’s amazing and a little heavy too. The food has been great. I love chappatis and I eat them every day!”
On a parting note, Camiel advices students and aspiring musicians to never deny their calling. “There are people who are born accountants, want to be accountants and become accountants. It’s the same with music. If you think this is what you want to do, hold on to it, go after it and don’t let go.”
Catch them live at bFlat, Indiranagar, on August 5 from 9 pm onwards. Call 25278361